STATUS ASTHMATICUS

“Status asthmaticus,” also known as acute severe asthma, is a particularly dangerous, life-threatening asthma state whose symptoms differ from those of traditional asthma. For instance, once a person is in status asthmaticus, using a conventional inhaler as they would for a normal asthma attack will not resolve their symptoms. This state is usually the result of increased mucus in the lungs from an upper respiratory infection; however, it can also be caused by a food allergy, a cold, chlamydial pneumonia, or herpes simplex virus infections. Symptoms beyond those of traditional asthma attacks can include blue coloration in the lips and fingernails, fatigue, sweating, and inattentiveness. They may also mimic those of other conditions such as anaphylaxis, cystic fibrosis, or pneumonia.

P.S. A mixture of oxygen and helium (heliox) can be administered to treat status asthmaticus by reducing turbulent airflow in the lungs.

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